Many have faced the trauma of when disasters hit close to home. For me, it’s been this past month. Montecito, California, a suburban enclave near Santa Barbara, suffered through December’s tragic wildfires (destroying thousands of acres) and last week’s deadly mudslides (claiming 20 lives as of today). I am heartbroken about what has happened to my adoptive town.
Despite the turmoil, Montecito is a place in which I was meant to be. Spiritually, I felt it from the very first moment I stumbled upon the village nearly five years ago. Living in Palm Springs at the time, I was even shown an intuitive insight that Montecito would one day be my address.
Now, I believe it has to do with the knowledge that I lived in this area in a previous life. Let me explain. Often while hiking in the majestic mountains cradling Montecito, I’d meditate either atop a boulder or beside a creek. During these moments of quiet solitude, I was intuitively shown images of my earlier life as a Native American exploring that same environment. It seemed as if I was home; or, I’d returned home.
Before the unfortunate series of events this past month, I’d decided to become more involved in the civic undertakings of Montecito. I joined the Montecito Trails Foundation (the nonprofit that preserves the miles and miles of nature paths) and the Rotary Club of Montecito. After being evacuated during the firestorms and now slowly coming out of the rubble from the mudslides, I’m connected and committed to Montecito more than ever.
While I’ve been somewhat displaced, – no gas, no power, no water, limited phone service, road closings – my situation is minor compared to the difficulties that others are facing. I send my prayers, positive thoughts and healing energy to all those impacted.
Sadly, natural disasters, as many of you’ve experienced, can create havoc, take lives and destroy property. They can also reinforce the human heart and make us stronger through compassion, hope and a whole lot of grit.
Love and light,
Tony
Before and after the tragic mudslides in Montecito.
My heart goes out to Montecito and all those displaced and who suffered loss…truly gutwrenching and heartbreaking. Happy you have found your “home.”
Thanks, Jade. It’s been a really tough month for the people of this area.
Oh my gosh Tony! I can’t imagine how devastating this has been to such a beautiful place. The damage of flooding is hard to conceive unless you’ve seen it first hand. Sending you a warm blast of white light from Arkansas!
Thank you for the love and light. Greatly appreciated and felt !
Tony, although it’s been years (decades?) since Steve & I have been in touch in ATL, it seems like only yesterday! Our hearts and prayers are with you…and all the fine folks of the beautiful Montecito, CA!
Jennifer 🦊
Hey! so nice to hear from you! Miss you guys! Thanks for sending your hearts and prayers our way. Take care.
As with any natural disaster, my heart goes out to all who have lost so much. I’m so glad to know that you are safe and will pray that services will resume soon. While not necessary, they do make life a little easier during times like these. Stay strong and hopeful and take care❤️
Thank you honey for your caring thoughts. Means the world to me.
Awful seeing news reports on the devastation in your community. Glad you are okay, Tony!
Hey Gordy,,It’s been very sad, but the healing process is already underway. Take care.